The Jenovese explored different forms of ammunition and other technology. Thus The Jihad's highest form of hull armour was still wood.
The Jihad Prophecy
The Jihad Prophecy was designed to be a battle ship in preparation for war. With the advent of this ship, the Jenovese had begun experimentation with lining their hulls with Black Makou.
The Jihad Absolution
The Absolution was designed as a small, maneuverable warship. It packed heavy firepower and machinery
into a small, graceful frame. This ship was also used to accompany patrol ships during wartime.
The Jihad Stingray
This ship was designed to be a scout ship. Highly maneuverable, in combat, the Stingray was best used for a quick attack and an equally quick escape.
The Jihad Raptor
Designed for short distance escort and Air Patrol.
The Jihad Behemoth
The Behemoth was designed to serve as a massive cargo ship. Due to its large size, it was not very agile,
and was thus almost always escorted. This was the most commonly used vessel by serious Jenovese merchants.
The Jihad Razor
The Jihad Razor was designed for Air Patrol and combat. Highly maneuverable, this ship and its counterpart, the Jihad Raptor, are the most commonly used by the Jenovese.
The Jihad Rebirth
The Jihad Rebirth was designed to be a large cargo ship capable of defending itself should its escort be defeated or elsewhere. This model of cargo ship was only used by the Jenovese military for for very important cargo, and was never without an escort of at least two or three Jihad Raptors or Razors.
Other airships:
The Jihad Apprentice
The Jihad Araneae
The Jihad Flash Fire
The Jihad Hammerhead
The Jihad Locust
The Jihad Phoenix
The Jihad Wolverine
Culture, life and technology on Jenova
Jenova
Jenova is the Township of The Jihad. In the year 1269 AC, a large fragment of the RoK separated itself and began to fall. Those of the Jihad took an interest, and prevented its fall. Instead, they bound it with great magic and they began to build homes there. And life has begun to flourish... so much as it can aboard a fragment of the RoK.
Ragnarok was a twisted thing whose very essence was a corruption of life. The Black Lifestream, the counter-part of the True Lifestream, was used by the Jenovese to twist creatures into abominable mutations for use in battle. Even the denizens of Jenova themselves had been known to volunteer for this process, becoming mighty Ragnarok Demons and Golems, though few survive the process.
With the inception of life on the RoK, other events had occurred. The native monsters had vacated, either by being destroyed or by leaving for easier people to prey upon, and other life had evolved. Rokwood, the newest of these, had begun sprouting like wildfire across the vast caverns of Jenova.
Black Makou
Black Makou was produced, harvested, and used as fuel and building material for great airships previously unavailable to the Jenovese military. And other, darker things had been slowly stirring to wakefulness in the depths of Jenova's many caverns.
Rokwood
Rokwood was a wood exclusive to Ragnarok. These trees grew in large clusters along the walls of the deep caverns within the Rok, where the corrupted Lifestream flowed strongest. Due to their close proximity to the source of Black Makou, these trees seemed to have a dark, magical nature. These trees had thick, intertwining roots and thick, squat trunks. Their foliage was comprised of brittle, thin branches which ended in a single, razor-sharp spiked leaf. Their trunks were black, gnarled, and covered in a fungal slime.
Once dried, however, the wood of these trees was among the finest in Faerun for buildings and tools. The process of drying Rokwood was slow and painstaking, for if it was dried too quickly, it became as brittle as its branches. If it was dried too slowly, the wood became unworkable.
Perhaps due to its magical nature, the wood of these trees functioned poorly fashioned as weapons- becoming brittle as eggshells when used in combat. The exception to this rule, however, were the arrows made from their branches. Their fragility, instead, proved to be an asset when a foe sought to remove an arrow shot into him, and found he cannot, as the shaft had broken, and the arrowhead remained lodged in the wound. Their leaves, also, were highly sought for creation of caltrops and other sharp wooden instruments, as well as by wizards for the creation of magical blades.
In the spring, Rokwood produced a small acorn-sized nut. These nuts were inedible and highly toxic, however among clientele of thieves and assassins they were highly coveted for work in poisons, and by wizards practicing the darker arts. Rokwood was barren the other three seasons of the year.
Jenova is the Township of The Jihad. In the year 1269 AC, a large fragment of the RoK separated itself and began to fall. Those of the Jihad took an interest, and prevented its fall. Instead, they bound it with great magic and they began to build homes there. And life has begun to flourish... so much as it can aboard a fragment of the RoK.
Ragnarok was a twisted thing whose very essence was a corruption of life. The Black Lifestream, the counter-part of the True Lifestream, was used by the Jenovese to twist creatures into abominable mutations for use in battle. Even the denizens of Jenova themselves had been known to volunteer for this process, becoming mighty Ragnarok Demons and Golems, though few survive the process.
With the inception of life on the RoK, other events had occurred. The native monsters had vacated, either by being destroyed or by leaving for easier people to prey upon, and other life had evolved. Rokwood, the newest of these, had begun sprouting like wildfire across the vast caverns of Jenova.
Black Makou
Black Makou was produced, harvested, and used as fuel and building material for great airships previously unavailable to the Jenovese military. And other, darker things had been slowly stirring to wakefulness in the depths of Jenova's many caverns.
Rokwood
Rokwood was a wood exclusive to Ragnarok. These trees grew in large clusters along the walls of the deep caverns within the Rok, where the corrupted Lifestream flowed strongest. Due to their close proximity to the source of Black Makou, these trees seemed to have a dark, magical nature. These trees had thick, intertwining roots and thick, squat trunks. Their foliage was comprised of brittle, thin branches which ended in a single, razor-sharp spiked leaf. Their trunks were black, gnarled, and covered in a fungal slime.
Once dried, however, the wood of these trees was among the finest in Faerun for buildings and tools. The process of drying Rokwood was slow and painstaking, for if it was dried too quickly, it became as brittle as its branches. If it was dried too slowly, the wood became unworkable.
Perhaps due to its magical nature, the wood of these trees functioned poorly fashioned as weapons- becoming brittle as eggshells when used in combat. The exception to this rule, however, were the arrows made from their branches. Their fragility, instead, proved to be an asset when a foe sought to remove an arrow shot into him, and found he cannot, as the shaft had broken, and the arrowhead remained lodged in the wound. Their leaves, also, were highly sought for creation of caltrops and other sharp wooden instruments, as well as by wizards for the creation of magical blades.
In the spring, Rokwood produced a small acorn-sized nut. These nuts were inedible and highly toxic, however among clientele of thieves and assassins they were highly coveted for work in poisons, and by wizards practicing the darker arts. Rokwood was barren the other three seasons of the year.
The Council of Five
The Harbingers of Faith (HoF)
The HoF were the intermediaries of The Apprentice's will. It was from this division that the ranks of the Chosen were drawn, and it was from this division that the faction as a whole drew its leadership. The HoF offered guidance to all the Faithful under their influence, and Absolution to all Faithless willing to seek it. They were also responsible for recruiting new Children into the flock.
The Jihad Research Syndicate (JRS)
The JRS were the scientists of the faction. They were also, perhaps, among the bravest souls the faction had to offer. These Faithful worked with many hazardous substances and unknown magicks to further the cause of Rebirth. It was this division that discovered the process by which a normal mortal might be transformed into a Ragnarok Demon through infusions of Black Makou. This process had only recently begun to see use on some members of the WoR division, and a select few of Sephiroth's Black Mass. This Division was responsible for all scientific and magical research for the faction.
The Jihad Intelligence Bureau (JIB)
The Realms were a dangerous place, and the Jihad Intelligence Bureau was responsible for discovering these dangers before they became a threat to the faction. They were also responsible for any espionage the faction may needed performed, such as assassinations or small campaigns to change public opinion on key issues to our cause.
The Warriors of Ragnarok (WoR)
All new Children fell into this division, until their training was complete and they were able to choose their own path. This was the largest of the five divisions, with many Faithful from all ranks and walks of life pursuing its path. Their purpose was to guard the faction's bunkers, bases, and homelands, and to fight to the death in any battle to which they were sent. The Warriors of Ragnarok were the strong arm of the faction, their strength and numbers rivaled only by the greatest armies of the Realms.
The Jihad Naval Patrol (JNP)
Where WoR guarded the lands below, the JNP were the sentinels of the air. This faction provided not only protection and strength, but also aided in keeping the treasury full. Operating both as merchants and pirates when necessary, there was no group more effective or deadly in the air. Additionally, JNP was responsible for piloting Jenovese 'bots'.
The Council of Five
The Council of Five ruled the faction. One leader from each of the five divisions met regularly to discuss the dangers, agendas, and courses of action for the faction. No Faithful might gain rank in a division without gaining approval first from the head of that division. The Council of Five were the following people:
The HoF were the intermediaries of The Apprentice's will. It was from this division that the ranks of the Chosen were drawn, and it was from this division that the faction as a whole drew its leadership. The HoF offered guidance to all the Faithful under their influence, and Absolution to all Faithless willing to seek it. They were also responsible for recruiting new Children into the flock.
The Jihad Research Syndicate (JRS)
The JRS were the scientists of the faction. They were also, perhaps, among the bravest souls the faction had to offer. These Faithful worked with many hazardous substances and unknown magicks to further the cause of Rebirth. It was this division that discovered the process by which a normal mortal might be transformed into a Ragnarok Demon through infusions of Black Makou. This process had only recently begun to see use on some members of the WoR division, and a select few of Sephiroth's Black Mass. This Division was responsible for all scientific and magical research for the faction.
The Jihad Intelligence Bureau (JIB)
The Realms were a dangerous place, and the Jihad Intelligence Bureau was responsible for discovering these dangers before they became a threat to the faction. They were also responsible for any espionage the faction may needed performed, such as assassinations or small campaigns to change public opinion on key issues to our cause.
The Warriors of Ragnarok (WoR)
All new Children fell into this division, until their training was complete and they were able to choose their own path. This was the largest of the five divisions, with many Faithful from all ranks and walks of life pursuing its path. Their purpose was to guard the faction's bunkers, bases, and homelands, and to fight to the death in any battle to which they were sent. The Warriors of Ragnarok were the strong arm of the faction, their strength and numbers rivaled only by the greatest armies of the Realms.
The Jihad Naval Patrol (JNP)
Where WoR guarded the lands below, the JNP were the sentinels of the air. This faction provided not only protection and strength, but also aided in keeping the treasury full. Operating both as merchants and pirates when necessary, there was no group more effective or deadly in the air. Additionally, JNP was responsible for piloting Jenovese 'bots'.
The Council of Five
The Council of Five ruled the faction. One leader from each of the five divisions met regularly to discuss the dangers, agendas, and courses of action for the faction. No Faithful might gain rank in a division without gaining approval first from the head of that division. The Council of Five were the following people:
- Evilynn (JIB)
- Grobnak (HoF)
- Rasma (JRS)
- Iago (JNP)
- Nerlith (WoR)
Society for Undead Rights
Faction name: Society for Undead Rights
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
This was a group of undead who chose to come together regardless of creed, religion, or other views.
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
This was a group of undead who chose to come together regardless of creed, religion, or other views.
Protectors of House deMystra
Faction name: Protectors of House deMystra
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
Knights of the Rose
Faction name: Knights of the Rose
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
Its former leader was Sylus.
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
Its former leader was Sylus.
Ebon Spur
Faction name: Ebon Spur
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
They were servants of Cyric, and existed only within Cyric's Church. Little is known of them.
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
They were servants of Cyric, and existed only within Cyric's Church. Little is known of them.
The Jihad's vision on other Cults
A description of each old Faction from the perspective of The Jihad:
The Ebon Spur
They are servants of Cyric, and exist only within Cyric's Church. Little is known of them, and their motives are not to be trusted, though some have proven friendly to our cause. Caution is the golden rule.
The People of the Black Blood
They serve Malar and Talos. They exist only within the Church Of Destruction. They are hunters, nothing more. If you can convert them to the Truth, then you will add a fine warrior and tracker to our ranks. If not, dismiss them. They are of little consequence at present.
Short Round Wrecking Crew
Nothing more than halflings with big mouths and small weapons. Unless you can convert them, slit their short bodies from nose to navel. They are useless.
Society for Undead Rights
This is a group of undead who have chosen to come together regardless of creed, religion, or other views. All in all, a noble ideal spoiled only by the lack of an ability to make it a reality. Although if they were able to successfully gather they may be a force of power in the Realms, they are not. Instead they are fractious and disorganized. Leave them to their inner quarrels.
Descent into Darkness
These drow exist only to preserve their ancestry. Though they may be useful in reconstructing the histories after Judgement, they are of little or no consequence in present times. Unless one desires Salvation, ignore them.
Knights of the Rose
This pathetic order claims to uphold the innocent in the name of Hanali and Sylus. These two powers have all but disappeared from the Realms, and with them, their cult. Let them carry on their hopeless crusade. No one is protected by words and flower petals.
Army of Darkness
Though once a mighty force in the Realms, the Army of Darkness has since disbanded, leaving behind small pockets of undead troops in the wake of what was once a great power. Convert those few remaining, and leave the rest to their squabbles.
The Sentinels
They oppose the RoK, and are in many ways the progenitors of the Pax Faerunis. Do not stop to speak with them unless you believe they can be turned from their twisted ways. Destroy them and all they hold dear until they are no longer a threat to the RoK and the Realms.
The Red Wizards
At this time, they exist solely within the ranks of the Dark Sun. Their motives are unknown. Whether they expand outside of Cyric's influence or not remains to be seen. They are manipulative, evil, and dangerous. When you can not use them to your own advantage, avoid them. Beware their barbed tongues.
The Ebon Spur
They are servants of Cyric, and exist only within Cyric's Church. Little is known of them, and their motives are not to be trusted, though some have proven friendly to our cause. Caution is the golden rule.
The People of the Black Blood
They serve Malar and Talos. They exist only within the Church Of Destruction. They are hunters, nothing more. If you can convert them to the Truth, then you will add a fine warrior and tracker to our ranks. If not, dismiss them. They are of little consequence at present.
Short Round Wrecking Crew
Nothing more than halflings with big mouths and small weapons. Unless you can convert them, slit their short bodies from nose to navel. They are useless.
Society for Undead Rights
This is a group of undead who have chosen to come together regardless of creed, religion, or other views. All in all, a noble ideal spoiled only by the lack of an ability to make it a reality. Although if they were able to successfully gather they may be a force of power in the Realms, they are not. Instead they are fractious and disorganized. Leave them to their inner quarrels.
Descent into Darkness
These drow exist only to preserve their ancestry. Though they may be useful in reconstructing the histories after Judgement, they are of little or no consequence in present times. Unless one desires Salvation, ignore them.
Knights of the Rose
This pathetic order claims to uphold the innocent in the name of Hanali and Sylus. These two powers have all but disappeared from the Realms, and with them, their cult. Let them carry on their hopeless crusade. No one is protected by words and flower petals.
Army of Darkness
Though once a mighty force in the Realms, the Army of Darkness has since disbanded, leaving behind small pockets of undead troops in the wake of what was once a great power. Convert those few remaining, and leave the rest to their squabbles.
The Sentinels
They oppose the RoK, and are in many ways the progenitors of the Pax Faerunis. Do not stop to speak with them unless you believe they can be turned from their twisted ways. Destroy them and all they hold dear until they are no longer a threat to the RoK and the Realms.
The Red Wizards
At this time, they exist solely within the ranks of the Dark Sun. Their motives are unknown. Whether they expand outside of Cyric's influence or not remains to be seen. They are manipulative, evil, and dangerous. When you can not use them to your own advantage, avoid them. Beware their barbed tongues.
The People of the Black Blood
Faction name: The People of the Black Blood
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
They were the People of the Black Blood, acknowledging Malar as their deity, not forgetting Lord Talos, Destroyer of All. They were lycanthropes. A group of people that could change into different forms of animals. They hunted in the name of Malar and destroyed their prey in the name of Talos.
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
They were the People of the Black Blood, acknowledging Malar as their deity, not forgetting Lord Talos, Destroyer of All. They were lycanthropes. A group of people that could change into different forms of animals. They hunted in the name of Malar and destroyed their prey in the name of Talos.
We move in silence, in the darkness.
We are your brothers, your sons, your husbands,
Your wives, your sisters, your daughters.
We wear your face, we live under your roof,
we move among you, but you do not see us.
We have no name.
We have no creed.
We are not a group.
A name imposes limits, where there are none.
A creed leads to factions, where we are one.
Together we will be, the children of the Hunt.
We move in the silent places,
We meet in the darkness,
Away from you.
We live among you, but make no mistake
We are not like you.
We were born of you, but we shall die
More than you.
You ask who we are, suffice it to say,
We are not you.
We are your brothers, your sons, your husbands,
Your wives, your sisters, your daughters.
We wear your face, we live under your roof,
we move among you, but you do not see us.
We have no name.
We have no creed.
We are not a group.
A name imposes limits, where there are none.
A creed leads to factions, where we are one.
Together we will be, the children of the Hunt.
We move in the silent places,
We meet in the darkness,
Away from you.
We live among you, but make no mistake
We are not like you.
We were born of you, but we shall die
More than you.
You ask who we are, suffice it to say,
We are not you.
Short Round Wrecking Crew
Faction name: Short Round Wrecking Crew
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
This is a group of killers who have banded together to disprove the fallacy that the shorter races of the Realms make for bad killing. Nothing else is known of this group.
Faction type: Cult
Status: Defunct
This is a group of killers who have banded together to disprove the fallacy that the shorter races of the Realms make for bad killing. Nothing else is known of this group.
The Jihad's vision on other Factions
A description of each old Faction from the perspective of The Jihad:
The Jihad
We are the Jihad. We seek the Salvation of the world through its destruction and Rebirth. We seek to destroy the evil Ao through the worship of RaGnArOk and The Apprentice. Salvation can only be achieved through The Apprentice. Join us or perish in the flames of Judgement. The choice is yours.
NyTek
These people lead the way in technology. They oppose the RoK. Convert them. Destroy those who will not convert, and steal their knowledge. Find their weaknesses and expose them to their foes. Exploit them when you can. They currently hold three of the Four Swords and are quite possibly the greatest threat to the RoK, and potentially a greater threat if given enough time. Do not give them the time they need.
Pax Faerunis
They oppose the RoK and are currently one of the most powerful forces that do so. Defame them and erode their popular support. Desecrate their holy places. Kill their families and urinate on their graves. Use whatever means necessary to ensure their destruction and the abolishment of their policies.
Church of Istishia
These idiots worship water. They are diametrically opposed to FLAME, and they wish to destroy the RoK. Like most, they fear the Judgement to come. Thus far, they have not proven to be a force of great power in the Realms. Turn them from their foolish course if you can. They are worth observing for amusement, but little more.
FLAME
These Faithless worship Kossuth, Lord of Fire. Their directives toward the RoK are unknown at present. They exist solely to counter the existence of the Church of Istishia. Convert those whom you can, and leave the rest to Judgement.
The Black Rose
These drow fled the Underdark and rose to the surface world, where they now prey on the weak. They care nothing for the events surrounding the RoK and Apprentice. They may prove useful in situations requiring minimal force. But do not turn your back on them. They may pop one of your pimples with a dagger.
Emirc Dezinargo Syndicate
They are rebels. They are a mafia of people who use force and brutality to obtain what they call "freedom." They do not care whether or not the RoK falls. Give the fools employment and make them think you are their friend. Use them as the pawns they are, and convert them when you can. Do not harm them directly.
Keepers of Antiquity
Do not earn their enmity. They are trustworthy, even if they are Faithless. These keepers of knowledge may have use to us in the future. Convert them when you can, but do not press the issue. When Judgement comes, they will die with the other Faithless. They pose no threat at this time.
Apostles Of The Crypt
The "Apostles" are a small band of undead who have banded together to claim revenge on those who slew them when they were mortals. Though this pathetic group shares some common goals with us, they have accomplished very little. Turn them from their erroneous ways, and put those who refuse you to eternal rest.
The Merchants of Sembia
These merchants are contract whores. If you make a contract with them, expect them to follow it- down to the loopholes they will seek to exploit. They will never strike openly, and are almost always underhanded in their intent. They shun outsiders, but will not show it. Do not deal with them under any circumstances. Offer them Absolution, not contracts.
The TriPower Empire
These fools follow Nisstyre and sponsor NyTek. They lead the way to breaking the RoK, though it is their minions who prove more powerful foes. Destroy them at all costs. Show no mercy and offer no Absolution.
The Vectorian Empire
Though their bigotry toward espers is despicable, this empire seems the most likely resource to grant us the technology we need to overcome our foes. Convert them when you can. Destroy only those you must. Treat them as you would an ally, but never turn your back on them, or you will discover their treacherous ways.
The Empire of Sephiroth
They are our allies; our brothers in Faith. Do what you can to assist them, that we may further The Prophecy together. If you find any Faithless among them, show them the error of their ways. If it cannot be done, leave them to the Judgement which they also work for.
The Jihad
We are the Jihad. We seek the Salvation of the world through its destruction and Rebirth. We seek to destroy the evil Ao through the worship of RaGnArOk and The Apprentice. Salvation can only be achieved through The Apprentice. Join us or perish in the flames of Judgement. The choice is yours.
NyTek
These people lead the way in technology. They oppose the RoK. Convert them. Destroy those who will not convert, and steal their knowledge. Find their weaknesses and expose them to their foes. Exploit them when you can. They currently hold three of the Four Swords and are quite possibly the greatest threat to the RoK, and potentially a greater threat if given enough time. Do not give them the time they need.
Pax Faerunis
They oppose the RoK and are currently one of the most powerful forces that do so. Defame them and erode their popular support. Desecrate their holy places. Kill their families and urinate on their graves. Use whatever means necessary to ensure their destruction and the abolishment of their policies.
Church of Istishia
These idiots worship water. They are diametrically opposed to FLAME, and they wish to destroy the RoK. Like most, they fear the Judgement to come. Thus far, they have not proven to be a force of great power in the Realms. Turn them from their foolish course if you can. They are worth observing for amusement, but little more.
FLAME
These Faithless worship Kossuth, Lord of Fire. Their directives toward the RoK are unknown at present. They exist solely to counter the existence of the Church of Istishia. Convert those whom you can, and leave the rest to Judgement.
The Black Rose
These drow fled the Underdark and rose to the surface world, where they now prey on the weak. They care nothing for the events surrounding the RoK and Apprentice. They may prove useful in situations requiring minimal force. But do not turn your back on them. They may pop one of your pimples with a dagger.
Emirc Dezinargo Syndicate
They are rebels. They are a mafia of people who use force and brutality to obtain what they call "freedom." They do not care whether or not the RoK falls. Give the fools employment and make them think you are their friend. Use them as the pawns they are, and convert them when you can. Do not harm them directly.
Keepers of Antiquity
Do not earn their enmity. They are trustworthy, even if they are Faithless. These keepers of knowledge may have use to us in the future. Convert them when you can, but do not press the issue. When Judgement comes, they will die with the other Faithless. They pose no threat at this time.
Apostles Of The Crypt
The "Apostles" are a small band of undead who have banded together to claim revenge on those who slew them when they were mortals. Though this pathetic group shares some common goals with us, they have accomplished very little. Turn them from their erroneous ways, and put those who refuse you to eternal rest.
The Merchants of Sembia
These merchants are contract whores. If you make a contract with them, expect them to follow it- down to the loopholes they will seek to exploit. They will never strike openly, and are almost always underhanded in their intent. They shun outsiders, but will not show it. Do not deal with them under any circumstances. Offer them Absolution, not contracts.
The TriPower Empire
These fools follow Nisstyre and sponsor NyTek. They lead the way to breaking the RoK, though it is their minions who prove more powerful foes. Destroy them at all costs. Show no mercy and offer no Absolution.
The Vectorian Empire
Though their bigotry toward espers is despicable, this empire seems the most likely resource to grant us the technology we need to overcome our foes. Convert them when you can. Destroy only those you must. Treat them as you would an ally, but never turn your back on them, or you will discover their treacherous ways.
The Empire of Sephiroth
They are our allies; our brothers in Faith. Do what you can to assist them, that we may further The Prophecy together. If you find any Faithless among them, show them the error of their ways. If it cannot be done, leave them to the Judgement which they also work for.
The Jihad Lexicon
A lexicon published in the past by The Jihad Faction:
- Ao: The Elder God who currently reigns over Toril and the Great Realms. Believed to have initiated The Prophecy in blind hatred of The Apprentice, in order to completely destroy the other god. He is an evil creature who cares nothing for the mortal lives lost to his jealousy. See also: The Apprentice, The Prophecy, Sephiroth.
- Absolution: The ritual in which a new member of The Church is inducted and forgiven for past crimes commited against The Rok. See also: The Baptism, Child, The Church.
- Apprentice, The: An Elder God. Formerly an apprentice to Ao, who challenged the other god for his throne and perished. He will return when The Prophecy is fulfilled. See also: The Prophecy, Ragnarok.
- Balance, The: The balance of good and evil in the Realms. If tilted either way, one will overtake the world and cause The Prophecy.
- Baptism, The: A ritual in which a member of The Priesthood is honored with the gift of Hemelia, and becomes one of The Chosen. See also: The Chosen, Hemelia, Jihad.
- Believer: Someone who believes in Ragnarok or supports it as we do. See also: Faithful.
- Call, The: The moment someone is called to worship the Rok.
- Child: One who is young in the Faith, or being sought to be converted. See also: Absolution
- Chosen, The: Someone infected with the Hemelia Virus. We believe they can hear the voice of The Rok. See also: The Baptism, The Stranger.
- Church, The: The Church of Ragnarok. See also: The Priesthood, The Jihad.
- Faith: Belief or worship of Ragnarok. Not to be mistaken with faith.
- Faithful, The: Those who worship the Rok. Usually used to refer to a group rather than an individual. See also: Believer.
- Faithless, The: Those who do not believe in Ragnarok, or oppose it. Used to refer to a group rather than an individual. See also: NonBeliever, Sinner.
- Hemelia: A virulent plague unleashed on the populace by Ragnarok, origination from a piece of the Rok itself. See also: The Baptism, The Chosen, The Stranger.
- Jihad, The: The movement to bring about Ragnarok. See also: The Church, The Priesthood.
- Judgement, The: The day the Rok falls upon the Realms and destroys the Faithless.
- NonBeliever: Someone who does not believe in Ragnarok, but does not necessarily actively oppose it. See also: The Faithless, Sinner.
- Priesthood, The: Used to refer to The Church. See also: The Church, The Jihad.
- Prophecy, The: The self-destruct plan unleashed when The Balance is tilted. Also refers to the return of The Apprentice. See also: The Apprentice, The Balance, Ragnarok.
- Ragnarok: The meteor sent to destroy the Realms as part of The Prophecy. Believed to be a weaker part of The Apprentice, forcefully controlled by Ao and guided by Sephiroth. Also believed to be a bringer of Balance. Also commonly called 'The Rok.' See also: Sephiroth, Ao, The Apprentice, The Balance, The Prophecy, The Rebirth, The Truth.
- Rebirth, The: When the Rok strikes the Realms and The Apprentice reawakens to destroy Ao and restore the land, and The Balance. See also: The Apprentice, The Balance, The Judgement , The Prophecy, The Truth.
- Salvation: To be saved from the day of Judgement. Only the Faithful can experience Salvation. See also: The Judgement.
- Sephiroth: The Prophet of Ragnarok. The Emperor of the Sephirothian Empire. Hired by Ao to enact The Prophecy and destroy The Apprentice. However, he is also a follower of The Apprentice, unbeknownst to Ao. See also: Ao, The Apprentice, The Prophecy.
- Sinner: Anyone who actively opposes the Rok. These people are to be destroyed if they can not be made to see the errors of their ways.
- Stranger, The: The mysterious Stranger who unleashed the plague Hemelia on Westbridge and The Realms. Believed to be a manifestation of the Rok itself. See also: The Chosen , Hemelia, Ragnarok.
- Sword(s), The: Four elemental swords carved from the ore of the Rok itself. These four blades, when placed in the Temple of Light (or Darkness), can be used to either stop The Prophecy, or force it to happen. See also: The Prophecy, Ragnarok, The Temple.
- Temple, The: The Temple of Light or The Temple of Darkness. The location of these temples is not known to most, though rumor has it a select few do know where they are. If the Swords are placed in one of these temples, The Prophecy will either be completed, or stopped. See also: The Prophecy, The Swords, The Tomb.
- Truth, The: The true story of how The Prophecy came to be. A story of Ao's evil, The Rebirth, and Ragnarok. See also: Ao, The Apprentice, The Prophecy, Ragnarok, The Rebirth.
- Tomb, The: The Tomb of The Apprentice. Rumored to be near the Temples of Light and Darkness. See also: The Apprentice, The Temple.
- Voice, The: The voice of The Apprentice or Ragnarok. A select few of The Faithful are able to hear this voice. See also: The Apprentice, The Chosen, The Faithful, Ragnarok.
The Jihad Faction History II
The Jihad's purpose was to bring about The Prophecy. They followed The Apprentice and Ragnarok.
Prior to the year 499 AC, Halethiel, the founder of Jihad, was a member of the Great Wizards Council. They announced the coming of the First Ragnarok and vanished. Centuries later, in 1264, another Council would disappear- for very different reasons. When the Council sought to meet on the matter of the Rok and determine a course of action, none could agree. But all of them sided against Lord Halethiel, who followed The Apprentice. So, when he left the Council, he placed traps into which, one by one, the other wizards fell and became magically imprisoned.
In the year 499 AC, Nisstyre, Minli, and Hathorne defeated the First Rok. Halethiel founded the Jihad, whose sole purpose was then to find ways to resurrect The Apprentice and destroy Ao. In the year 500 AC, Nisstyre cast a great spell over the Realms- robbing all of their memories, and eradicating all written histories. No one remembered what had happened, but the Jihad continued building- their memories of the events gone, but not their purpose. Those few of the Council who had escaped their magical prisons could remember nothing of Halethiel's actions, and so did not seek revenge.
In the year 800 AC, Lord Halethiel perished in a euphoric fit of prophecy. He died of Hemelia, as what he called one of the Chosen. His apprentice, Ethkin, then took up the banner and lead Jihad into the next century. After Halethiel's death, the remainder of the Wizard Council who had not escaped or perished in their prisons were freed. Those few whose memories remained intact were unable to exact revenge upon their dead tormentor, and so they went their own way. Twenty years later, a new Council was formed.
And so, under the leadership of Ethkin and his generals, the Jihad continued preparing. The year of 1264 brought a flurry of activity as a new Rok emerged, and The Voice once again made itself heard. And so the war continued to resurrect The Apprentice. The Jenovese would stop at nothing to achieve their objective. Some had even speculated that it was the movement of Jihad who was responsible for the disappearance of the second Council, ridiculous as it may seem.
They supported the Empire of Sephiroth because of a shared goal: resurrecting The Apprentice. The Empire of Sephiroth harboured The Black Mass, an army of the undead and mutants bent on fulfilling The Prophecy. It was for this reason also that Jihad is undead friendly.
Various factions came into play regarding both The Prophecy and other discoveries which might have helped or hindered The Jihad. One faction of note was the Pax Faerunis, a group devoted to destroying the Rok. While their goal of saving the world was noble, they only served to hinder the inevitable, and risk subjecting the world to a destruction without rebirth when next Ao sent another Rok, so believed The Jihad Another faction, calling themselves NyTek, also opposed the Rok. They opposed the Rok out of fear, according to The Jihad members.
Prior to the year 499 AC, Halethiel, the founder of Jihad, was a member of the Great Wizards Council. They announced the coming of the First Ragnarok and vanished. Centuries later, in 1264, another Council would disappear- for very different reasons. When the Council sought to meet on the matter of the Rok and determine a course of action, none could agree. But all of them sided against Lord Halethiel, who followed The Apprentice. So, when he left the Council, he placed traps into which, one by one, the other wizards fell and became magically imprisoned.
In the year 499 AC, Nisstyre, Minli, and Hathorne defeated the First Rok. Halethiel founded the Jihad, whose sole purpose was then to find ways to resurrect The Apprentice and destroy Ao. In the year 500 AC, Nisstyre cast a great spell over the Realms- robbing all of their memories, and eradicating all written histories. No one remembered what had happened, but the Jihad continued building- their memories of the events gone, but not their purpose. Those few of the Council who had escaped their magical prisons could remember nothing of Halethiel's actions, and so did not seek revenge.
In the year 800 AC, Lord Halethiel perished in a euphoric fit of prophecy. He died of Hemelia, as what he called one of the Chosen. His apprentice, Ethkin, then took up the banner and lead Jihad into the next century. After Halethiel's death, the remainder of the Wizard Council who had not escaped or perished in their prisons were freed. Those few whose memories remained intact were unable to exact revenge upon their dead tormentor, and so they went their own way. Twenty years later, a new Council was formed.
And so, under the leadership of Ethkin and his generals, the Jihad continued preparing. The year of 1264 brought a flurry of activity as a new Rok emerged, and The Voice once again made itself heard. And so the war continued to resurrect The Apprentice. The Jenovese would stop at nothing to achieve their objective. Some had even speculated that it was the movement of Jihad who was responsible for the disappearance of the second Council, ridiculous as it may seem.
They supported the Empire of Sephiroth because of a shared goal: resurrecting The Apprentice. The Empire of Sephiroth harboured The Black Mass, an army of the undead and mutants bent on fulfilling The Prophecy. It was for this reason also that Jihad is undead friendly.
Various factions came into play regarding both The Prophecy and other discoveries which might have helped or hindered The Jihad. One faction of note was the Pax Faerunis, a group devoted to destroying the Rok. While their goal of saving the world was noble, they only served to hinder the inevitable, and risk subjecting the world to a destruction without rebirth when next Ao sent another Rok, so believed The Jihad Another faction, calling themselves NyTek, also opposed the Rok. They opposed the Rok out of fear, according to The Jihad members.
The Jihad's vision on other clans
A description of each old clan from the perspective of The Jihad:
Church of Destruction
The members of this Church are perhaps the easiest people in the Realms to convert. They worship destruction. The RoK comes to destroy all. What more could they want? Do not tell them of the Rebirth that will come after, else they may be more hesitant to join.
Church of Strife
These delusional madmen worship Cyric, Lord of Strife. They have read a book called the Cyrinishad which makes them believe Cyric to be the center of the Universe. They also believe that all other gods are just facets of the same god- Cyric. Point out to them that Ragnarok is another facet of "The One and All," that is worthy of worship, and you will have their interest. Explain to them the suffering that will come with The Judgement when the Rok falls, and you will have their loyalty.
Church of Nightmares
Lackeys, every one of them. They sup from the bowl Nisstyre pisses in and call it ambrosia. Followers of the TriPower and NyTek, they must be destroyed. They are nothing more than a small congregation of foes, come together to share Nisstyre's fecal matter. Pay them only enough mind to spill their blood and continue your journey to Truth.
The Harper Alliance
These tree-huggers wish to keep nature and man from clashing. They oppose the inevitability of such an event just as they oppose the inevitability of Judgement. Unless they can be convinced of the legitimacy of the Rebirth which will come after, they must be destroyed. This group now also represents the old alliance that was once known as the Pax Faerunis. Beware their numbers, but fear not what little wits they have.
Apostles of Sune
These flighty hedonists are of no consequence. Only one of them is worth anything... . One Sunite holds the Ragnarok Sword of Earth. Find him. Kill him. Mutilate his remains and return the Sword to the Priesthood.
Crimson Guardians
This elitist group claims to help and embrace all, regardless of their views or background. They are liars. Most follow the god Kossuth. Recently, there was a split within the clan as the sect which worships Kossuth overtook the old leadership and changed the name of the clan. Though honorable in deed, their self-righteousness and oppositon of The Rok makes friendship an impossibility. If one can erode the chip from a Guardian's shoulder and convert him, we would have more fodder for our cannons. If not, visit your local blacksmith- he may have some scrap you can use for the cannons. It may work better, too.
The Illuminati
Not much is known of the objectives of this clan, save that they care nothing of the events of The Prophecy. Their ties with Nytek and scientific research can be useful, however. Do not dismiss them, and do not let down your guard.
Shadow Thieves
The Shadow Thieves attempt to control the underworld and black market. They take out bounties for assassinations and theft, and are often found to be responsible for acts of espionage. Though they have not made a formal declaration, most members of this organization oppose the Rok. The only true way to a Shadow Thieve's heart is with money. If you can convert one, you may add a fine assassin to our forces. If not, hire him to destroy a powerful foe. Hopefully, neither one will survive.
Dragon's Hoard Merchants
The Dragon's Hoard Merchants are nearly always honest in their dealings. They do not ambush unwary travellers, or seek to steal loose money-purses. They are traders, nothing more. Their stance on the Rok is unknown at this time, though it is likely that they oppose it. If you can convert one, do so. Their contacts could be of use to us. If not, ignore them.
Loners and Outlaws
Loners tend to stick to themselves, and can thus sometimes be difficult to convince of the Truth. Outlaws tend to gather in groups, and it is difficult to gather intelligence on how best to deal with each individual group. Do not trust them. Gain their friendship, do not give them yours. Use them when appropriate, and dispense with them as necessary.
Church of Destruction
The members of this Church are perhaps the easiest people in the Realms to convert. They worship destruction. The RoK comes to destroy all. What more could they want? Do not tell them of the Rebirth that will come after, else they may be more hesitant to join.
Church of Strife
These delusional madmen worship Cyric, Lord of Strife. They have read a book called the Cyrinishad which makes them believe Cyric to be the center of the Universe. They also believe that all other gods are just facets of the same god- Cyric. Point out to them that Ragnarok is another facet of "The One and All," that is worthy of worship, and you will have their interest. Explain to them the suffering that will come with The Judgement when the Rok falls, and you will have their loyalty.
Church of Nightmares
Lackeys, every one of them. They sup from the bowl Nisstyre pisses in and call it ambrosia. Followers of the TriPower and NyTek, they must be destroyed. They are nothing more than a small congregation of foes, come together to share Nisstyre's fecal matter. Pay them only enough mind to spill their blood and continue your journey to Truth.
The Harper Alliance
These tree-huggers wish to keep nature and man from clashing. They oppose the inevitability of such an event just as they oppose the inevitability of Judgement. Unless they can be convinced of the legitimacy of the Rebirth which will come after, they must be destroyed. This group now also represents the old alliance that was once known as the Pax Faerunis. Beware their numbers, but fear not what little wits they have.
Apostles of Sune
These flighty hedonists are of no consequence. Only one of them is worth anything... . One Sunite holds the Ragnarok Sword of Earth. Find him. Kill him. Mutilate his remains and return the Sword to the Priesthood.
Crimson Guardians
This elitist group claims to help and embrace all, regardless of their views or background. They are liars. Most follow the god Kossuth. Recently, there was a split within the clan as the sect which worships Kossuth overtook the old leadership and changed the name of the clan. Though honorable in deed, their self-righteousness and oppositon of The Rok makes friendship an impossibility. If one can erode the chip from a Guardian's shoulder and convert him, we would have more fodder for our cannons. If not, visit your local blacksmith- he may have some scrap you can use for the cannons. It may work better, too.
The Illuminati
Not much is known of the objectives of this clan, save that they care nothing of the events of The Prophecy. Their ties with Nytek and scientific research can be useful, however. Do not dismiss them, and do not let down your guard.
Shadow Thieves
The Shadow Thieves attempt to control the underworld and black market. They take out bounties for assassinations and theft, and are often found to be responsible for acts of espionage. Though they have not made a formal declaration, most members of this organization oppose the Rok. The only true way to a Shadow Thieve's heart is with money. If you can convert one, you may add a fine assassin to our forces. If not, hire him to destroy a powerful foe. Hopefully, neither one will survive.
Dragon's Hoard Merchants
The Dragon's Hoard Merchants are nearly always honest in their dealings. They do not ambush unwary travellers, or seek to steal loose money-purses. They are traders, nothing more. Their stance on the Rok is unknown at this time, though it is likely that they oppose it. If you can convert one, do so. Their contacts could be of use to us. If not, ignore them.
Loners and Outlaws
Loners tend to stick to themselves, and can thus sometimes be difficult to convince of the Truth. Outlaws tend to gather in groups, and it is difficult to gather intelligence on how best to deal with each individual group. Do not trust them. Gain their friendship, do not give them yours. Use them when appropriate, and dispense with them as necessary.
The Jihad Faction History
In 1264, the Great Wizard Council announced the arrival of the Ragnarok, a giant meteor sent to destroy the world. Halethiel, one of the members of the Council, announced also that the Rok's appearance heralded the destruction of Ao, and the return of The Apprentice. Never having heard of The Apprentice, most people scoffed at his words. However, a select few listened. Leaving the Great Wizard Council, Halethiel and his new cult of followers then disappeared from the Realms. Shortly after, the Great Council also vanished.
In 1267 strange fliers began to appear in Westbridge and the surrounding area. These fliers made the bold claim of knowing the Rok's origins, and how it could be stopped forever. Public forums were held, where a man named Ethkin spoke of The Apprentice and some sort of Rebirth. Still, few listened. For those few, however, secret meetings were held, and those whom were found worthy were inducted into the Order of Jihad.
In 1268 the Hemelia Virus was born. It was then, with the death of Halethiel by the virus, that the group resurfaced publicly. With what many still call madness sprouting from their mouths, the Jihad was born anew. Even with his dying breath, Halethiel called Hemelia a blessing, claiming its divine origin to be Ragnarok.
With the arrival of 1269, Ethkin himself has disappeared into his research, leaving his proteges Grobnak, Wermidon, Razkal, and Simmer to carry on the tradition. The Jihad worked with Sephiroth towards the arrival of the Rok. Salvation could only be achieved through Judgement, and only the Faithful were said to survive.
In 1267 strange fliers began to appear in Westbridge and the surrounding area. These fliers made the bold claim of knowing the Rok's origins, and how it could be stopped forever. Public forums were held, where a man named Ethkin spoke of The Apprentice and some sort of Rebirth. Still, few listened. For those few, however, secret meetings were held, and those whom were found worthy were inducted into the Order of Jihad.
In 1268 the Hemelia Virus was born. It was then, with the death of Halethiel by the virus, that the group resurfaced publicly. With what many still call madness sprouting from their mouths, the Jihad was born anew. Even with his dying breath, Halethiel called Hemelia a blessing, claiming its divine origin to be Ragnarok.
With the arrival of 1269, Ethkin himself has disappeared into his research, leaving his proteges Grobnak, Wermidon, Razkal, and Simmer to carry on the tradition. The Jihad worked with Sephiroth towards the arrival of the Rok. Salvation could only be achieved through Judgement, and only the Faithful were said to survive.
Flame Air Ordinance
FLAME Air Ordinance (FAO) was an airship organization of FLAME. Its purpose was to assist the FLAME faction - to which the fleet belonged- in its actions, such as building of the city, transport services etc, if necessary even defensive military actions.
Ranks
Rules and regulations
Basic attack rule
They did not attack other ships. Airship combat was permitted under the following circuimstances: training (agreed by both sides), being attacked by another ship (self-defence) and airship challenges (being challenged by another captain to a battle, agreed by both sides). Being a military force was not their primary goal.
Crew and members rule
The crew of each ship was to be picked by the captain of the vessel. As of that moment the captain was responsible for the crew (when it was onboard), its actions, safety etc. Once a captain had recruited a person, the leader had to be notified either by note or other means. Respect to all other FAO members and everyone else was required. As was the necessity to be polite. Obeying the captain's or officer's orders was considered a key issue, as was common sense.
Chain of command rule (descending order)
FLAME leadership > FAO leaders > captains > officers > gunners, > mechanics.
Ships of the FAO
Ranks
- Leader: leaders of FAO
- Captain: ship captains and main owners, one per ship, purchaser
- Officers: captain assigned commanders, may be more than one per ship
- Gunner: captain assigned gun/weaponry operators
- Mechanic: captain/officer assigned system technicians
Rules and regulations
Basic attack rule
They did not attack other ships. Airship combat was permitted under the following circuimstances: training (agreed by both sides), being attacked by another ship (self-defence) and airship challenges (being challenged by another captain to a battle, agreed by both sides). Being a military force was not their primary goal.
Crew and members rule
The crew of each ship was to be picked by the captain of the vessel. As of that moment the captain was responsible for the crew (when it was onboard), its actions, safety etc. Once a captain had recruited a person, the leader had to be notified either by note or other means. Respect to all other FAO members and everyone else was required. As was the necessity to be polite. Obeying the captain's or officer's orders was considered a key issue, as was common sense.
Chain of command rule (descending order)
FLAME leadership > FAO leaders > captains > officers > gunners, > mechanics.
Ships of the FAO
- Spark of Fire: Starlight (captain)
- The Starblazer: Kronos (captain), Andrea (gunner), Arith (gunner), Stix (gunner)
- Insatiable Inferno: Kossuth
- Eternal Phoenix: Caroline and Nightfire
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)